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van der Velden NCA, Smets EMA, van Vliet LM, Brom L, van Laarhoven HWM, Henselmans I. Effects of prognostic communication strategies on emotions, coping, and appreciation of consultations: An experimental study in advanced cancer. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38533613 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951524000403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate effects of prognostic communication strategies on emotions, coping, and appreciation of consultations in advanced cancer. METHODS For this experimental study, we created 8 videos of a scripted oncological consultation, only varying in prognostic communication strategies. Disease-naive individuals (n = 1036) completed surveys before and after watching 1 video, while imagining being the depicted cancer patient. We investigated effects of the type of disclosure (prognostic disclosure vs. communication of unpredictability vs. non-disclosure) and content of disclosure (standard vs. standard and best-case vs. standard, best- and worst-case survival scenarios; numerical vs. word-based estimates) on emotions, coping, and appreciation of consultations. Moderating effects of individual characteristics were tested. RESULTS Participants generally reported more satisfaction (p < .001) after prognostic disclosure versus communication of unpredictability and less uncertainty (p = .042), more satisfaction (p = .005), and more desirability (p = .016) regarding prognostic information after numerical versus word-based estimates. Effects of different survival scenarios were absent. Prognostic communication strategies lacked effects on emotions and coping. Significant moderators included prognostic information preference and uncertainty tolerance. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS In an experimental setting, prognostic disclosure does not cause more negative emotions than non-disclosure and numerical estimates are more strongly appreciated than words. Oncologists' worries about harming patients should not preclude disclosing (precise) prognostic information, yet sensitivity to individual preferences and characteristics remains pivotal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi C A van der Velden
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth M van Vliet
- Department of Health, Medical and Neuropsychology, University of Leiden, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Brom
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Netherlands Association for Palliative Care (PZNL), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke W M van Laarhoven
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Henselmans
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Quality of Care, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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2
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Chen F, Ou M, Xiao Z, Xu X. Trajectories of fear of cancer recurrence and its influence factors: A longitudinal study on Chinese newly diagnosed cancer patients. Psychooncology 2024; 33:e6271. [PMID: 38282228 DOI: 10.1002/pon.6271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is an ongoing and common psychological problem faced by cancer patients. The objective of this study was to explore the variation trend of FCR and its influencing factors in Chinese newly diagnosed cancer patients from admission to 2 months after discharge. Demographic and tumor characteristics, as well as experiential avoidance (EA), were used as predictors. METHOD A longitudinal design and a consecutive sampling method were used to select 266 newly diagnosed cancer patients admitted to a tertiary cancer hospital in China from July to December 2022. Measurements of FCR and EA were obtained at admission (T1), 1 month after discharge (T2), and 2 months post-discharge (T3). Generalized estimating equations were used to identify factors associated with FCR for longitudinal data analysis. RESULTS A total of 266 participants completed the follow-up. Both FCR and EA scores of patients with newly diagnosed cancer showed a significant trend of first increasing and then decreasing at baseline and follow-up (p < 0.001). The junior secondary and less education level, rural residence, advanced tumor and high EA level were risk factors for higher FCR. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the FCR levels of most newly diagnosed cancer patients in China are different at the three time points and affected by different factors, with the highest level at 1 month after discharge. These results have significant implications for future identifying populations in need of targeted intervention based on their FCR trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furong Chen
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
- School of Nursing, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Meijun Ou
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhirui Xiao
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
- School of Nursing, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xianghua Xu
- The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University/Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
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3
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Larsen MK, Schultz H, Mortensen MB, Birkelund R. Decision making in the oesophageal cancer trajectory a source of tension and edginess to patients and relatives: a qualitative study. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2023; 18:2170018. [PMID: 36727528 PMCID: PMC9897738 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2170018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The curative oesophageal cancer continuum-diagnosis, treatment and survivorship represents different phases with its own challenges for the involved parties. The process of treatment decisions and interactions between patients with oesophageal cancer (EC), relatives and health professionals is vital yet not well described. The purpose of the study was to explore patients' and relatives' experiences with the process of decision-making through the EC illness and treatment trajectory. METHODS Longitudinal explorative design was employed based on ethnographic fieldwork in the form of participant observations inspired by the American anthropologist James Spradley. RESULTS Sixteen patients and 18 relatives were recruited for participant observations. In total, 184 hours of participant observations were conducted. The study showed that decision-making was filled with tension and edginess. Four themes were identified: 1) The encounter with the medical authority, 2) The need to see the big picture in the treatment trajectory, 3) A predetermined treatment decision, and 4) Meeting numerous different health professionals. CONCLUSION The EC trajectory and decision-making were filled with anxiety. Patients and relatives lacked an overview of the treatment pathway, leading to their role in decision-making often being governed by the medical authority. Timing information and continuity are vital factors in decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Kaas Larsen
- Department of Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark,Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark,CONTACT Malene Kaas Larsen Department of Surgery, Odense University Hospital, J.B. Winsløws Vej 4, Odense C5000, Denmark
| | - Helen Schultz
- Department of Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark,Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Michael Bau Mortensen
- Department of Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark,Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Regner Birkelund
- Health Services Research Unit, Lillebaelt Hospital, Vejle, Denmark,Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
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4
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Bae KR, Ahn Y, Park JW, Kim SJ. Exploring Fear of Cancer Recurrence (FCR) in cancer survivors from a medical social work perspective: A qualitative study of medical social workers in South Korea. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288059. [PMID: 37410785 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fear of Cancer Recurrence (FCR) in cancer survivors has been insufficiently addressed despite its imperativeness in cancer journey. Although several studies have investigated healthcare professionals' experience with FCR in cancer survivors, a medical social work perspective has rarely been reflected. This study aimed to explore Korean medical social workers' experience with intervening FCR in cancer survivors. METHODS Snowball sampling recruited 12 experienced medical social workers intervening with cancer survivors at tertiary or university cancer hospitals in South Korea. Individual and focus-group interviews (FGI) were conducted with the medical social workers. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed by using an inductive qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Content analysis of the interviews extracted the following major themes regarding FCR in cancer survivors. First, when and how FCR among cancer survivors emerged at the early stage of medical social work interventions was identified. Second, how medical social workers dealt with FCR in cancer survivors was illustrated. Third, the responses of cancer survivors to medical social work interventions for FCR were assessed. Finally, the internal and external issues underlying the medical social work interventions for FCR among cancer survivors were revealed and discussed. CONCLUSION Based on the results, this study suggested the implications on dealing with FCR in cancer survivors in the realm of medial social work profession. Furthermore, it expanded the discussion about FCR in cancer survivors from cancer hospitals to community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Ryeong Bae
- Department of Clinical Research Design & Evaluation, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yeojin Ahn
- Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Joung Won Park
- Department of Clinical Research Design & Evaluation, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
- Division of Social Work, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seok-Joo Kim
- Department of Social Welfare, College of Social Sciences, Daegu University, Gyeongbuk, South Korea
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5
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Vromans RD, Hommes S, Clouth FJ, Lo-Fo-Wong DNN, Verbeek XAAM, van de Poll-Franse L, Pauws S, Krahmer E. Need for numbers: assessing cancer survivors' needs for personalized and generic statistical information. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2022; 22:260. [PMID: 36199092 PMCID: PMC9535944 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-022-02005-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Statistical information (e.g., on long-term survival or side effects) may be valuable for healthcare providers to share with their patients to facilitate shared decision making on treatment options. In this pre-registered study, we assessed cancer survivors’ need for generic (population-based) versus personalized (tailored towards patient/tumor characteristics) statistical information after their diagnosis. We examined how information coping style, subjective numeracy, and anxiety levels of survivors relate to these needs and identified statistical need profiles. Additionally, we qualitatively explored survivors’ considerations for (not) wanting statistical information. Methods Cancer survivors’ need for statistics regarding incidence, survival, recurrence, side effects and quality of life were assessed with an online questionnaire. For each of these topics, survivors were asked to think back to their first cancer diagnosis and to indicate their need for generic and personalized statistics on a 4-point scale (‘not at all’- ‘very much’). Associations between information coping style, subjective numeracy, and anxiety with need for generic and personalized statistics were examined with Pearson’s correlations. Statistical need profiles were identified using latent class analysis. Considerations for (not) wanting statistics were analyzed qualitatively. Results Overall, cancer survivors (n = 174) had a higher need for personalized than for generic statistics (p < .001, d = 0.74). Need for personalized statistics was associated with higher subjective numeracy (r = .29) and an information-seeking coping style (r = .41). Three statistical need profiles were identified (1) a strong need for both generic and personalized statistics (34%), (2) a stronger need for personalized than for generic statistics (55%), and (3) a little need for both generic and personalized statistics (11%). Considerations for wanting personalized cancer statistics ranged from feelings of being in control to making better informed decisions about treatment. Considerations for not wanting statistics related to negative experience with statistics and to the unpredictability of future events for individual patients. Conclusions In light of the increased possibilities for using personalized statistics in clinical practice and decision aids, it appears that most cancer survivors want personalized statistical information during treatment decision-making. Subjective numeracy and information coping style seem important factors influencing this need. We encourage further development and implementation of data-driven personalized decision support technologies in oncological care to support patients in treatment decision making. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12911-022-02005-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben D Vromans
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg Center for Cognition and Communication, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, P.O. Box 90153, 5037 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands. .,Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Saar Hommes
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg Center for Cognition and Communication, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, P.O. Box 90153, 5037 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Felix J Clouth
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Statistics and Methodology, Tilburg School of Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Deborah N N Lo-Fo-Wong
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Xander A A M Verbeek
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lonneke van de Poll-Franse
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg School of Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Steffen Pauws
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg Center for Cognition and Communication, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, P.O. Box 90153, 5037 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands.,Collaborative Care Solutions, Philips Research, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Emiel Krahmer
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg Center for Cognition and Communication, Tilburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, P.O. Box 90153, 5037 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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6
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van der Velden NCA, van Laarhoven HWM, Burgers SA, Hendriks LEL, de Vos FYFL, Dingemans AMC, Jansen J, van Haarst JMW, Dits J, Smets EM, Henselmans I. Characteristics of patients with advanced cancer preferring not to know prognosis: a multicenter survey study. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:941. [PMID: 36050628 PMCID: PMC9434918 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09911-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For some patients with advanced cancer not knowing prognosis is essential. Yet, in an era of informed decision-making, the potential protective function of unawareness is easily overlooked. We aimed to investigate 1) the proportion of advanced cancer patients preferring not to know prognosis; 2) the reasons underlying patients’ prognostic information preference; 3) the characteristics associated with patients’ prognostic information preference; and 4) the concordance between physicians’ perceived and patients’ actual prognostic information preference. Methods This is a cross-sectional study with structured surveys (PROSPECT). Medical and thoracic oncologists included patients (n = 524), from seven Dutch hospitals, with metastatic/inoperable cancer and an expected median overall survival of ≤ 12 months. For analysis, descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were used. Results Twenty-five to 31% of patients preferred not to know a general life expectancy estimate or the 5/2/1-year mortality risk. Compared to patients preferring to know prognosis, patients preferring unawareness more often reported optimism, avoidance and inability to comprehend information as reasons for wanting limited information; and less often reported expectations of others, anxiety, autonomy and a sense of control as reasons for wanting complete information. Females (p < .05), patients receiving a further line of systemic treatment (p < .01) and patients with strong fighting spirit (p < .001) were more likely to prefer not to know prognosis. Concordance between physicians’ perceived and patients’ actual prognostic information preference was poor (kappa = 0.07). Conclusions We encourage physicians to explore patients’ prognostic information preferences and the underlying reasons explicitly, enabling individually tailored communication. Future studies may investigate changes in patients’ prognostic information preferences over time and examine the impact of prognostic disclosure on patients who prefer unawareness. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09911-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi C A van der Velden
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Hanneke W M van Laarhoven
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjaak A Burgers
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Antoni Van Leeuwenhoek Ziekenhuis, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lizza E L Hendriks
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Filip Y F L de Vos
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne-Marie C Dingemans
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Jansen
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Maarten W van Haarst
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Department of Surgery, Tergooi Ziekenhuis, Hilversum, The Netherlands
| | - Joyce Dits
- Department of Pulmonology, Franciscus Gasthuis en Vlietland, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Ma Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Henselmans
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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7
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Vromans RD, van Eenbergen MC, Geleijnse G, Pauws S, van de Poll-Franse LV, Krahmer EJ. Exploring Cancer Survivor Needs and Preferences for Communicating Personalized Cancer Statistics From Registry Data: Qualitative Multimethod Study. JMIR Cancer 2021; 7:e25659. [PMID: 34694237 PMCID: PMC8576563 DOI: 10.2196/25659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Disclosure of cancer statistics (eg, survival or incidence rates) based on a representative group of patients can help increase cancer survivors’ understanding of their own diagnostic and prognostic situation, and care planning. More recently, there has been an increasing interest in the use of cancer registry data for disclosing and communicating personalized cancer statistics (tailored toward personal and clinical characteristics) to cancer survivors and relatives. Objective The aim of this study was to explore breast cancer (BCa) and prostate cancer (PCa) survivor needs and preferences for disclosing (what) and presenting (how) personalized statistics from a large Dutch population-based data set, the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR). Methods To elicit survivor needs and preferences for communicating personalized NCR statistics, we created different (non)interactive tools visualizing hypothetical scenarios and adopted a qualitative multimethod study design. We first conducted 2 focus groups (study 1; n=13) for collecting group data on BCa and PCa survivor needs and preferences, using noninteractive sketches of what a tool for communicating personalized statistics might look like. Based on these insights, we designed a revised interactive tool, which was used to further explore the needs and preferences of another group of cancer survivors during individual think-aloud observations and semistructured interviews (study 2; n=11). All sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, analyzed using thematic (focus groups) and content analysis (think-aloud observations), and reported in compliance with qualitative research reporting criteria. Results In both studies, cancer survivors expressed the need to receive personalized statistics from a representative source, with especially a need for survival and conditional survival rates (ie, survival rate for those who have already survived for a certain period). Personalized statistics adjusted toward personal and clinical factors were deemed more relevant and useful to know than generic or average-based statistics. Participants also needed support for correctly interpreting the personalized statistics and putting them into perspective, for instance by adding contextual or comparative information. Furthermore, while thinking aloud, participants experienced a mix of positive (sense of hope) and negative emotions (feelings of distress) while viewing the personalized survival data. Overall, participants preferred simplicity and conciseness, and the ability to tailor the type of visualization and amount of (detailed) statistical information. Conclusions The majority of our sample of cancer survivors wanted to receive personalized statistics from the NCR. Given the variation in patient needs and preferences for presenting personalized statistics, designers of similar information tools may consider potential tailoring strategies on multiple levels, as well as effective ways for providing supporting information to make sure that the personalized statistics are properly understood. This is encouraging for cancer registries to address this unmet need, but also for those who are developing or implementing personalized data-driven information tools for patients and relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben D Vromans
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands.,Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Mies C van Eenbergen
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Gijs Geleijnse
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Steffen Pauws
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands.,Department of Remote Patient Management and Chronic Care, Philips Research, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - Lonneke V van de Poll-Franse
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Division of Psychosocial Research & Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Emiel J Krahmer
- Department of Communication and Cognition, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
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van der Velden NCA, van der Kleij MBA, Lehmann V, Smets EMA, Stouthard JML, Henselmans I, Hillen MA. Communication about Prognosis during Patient-Initiated Second Opinion Consultations in Advanced Cancer Care: An Observational Qualitative Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115694. [PMID: 34073341 PMCID: PMC8199300 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Prognostic communication is essential for patients with advanced cancer to enable informed medical decision-making and end-of-life planning. Discussing prognosis is challenging, and might be especially complex for oncologists conducting a second opinion (SO). Survival data are often lacking, and consulting oncologists need to consider previously conveyed information and patients’ relationship with the referring oncologist. We qualitatively investigated how advanced cancer patients and consulting oncologists discuss prognosis during audio-recorded SO consultations (N = 60), including prognostic information received from the referring oncologist. Our results show that patients regularly expressed implicit cues to discuss prognosis or posed explicit questions tentatively. Consulting oncologists were mostly unresponsive to patients’ cues and cautious to prognosticate. They also seemed cautious when patients brought up the referring oncologist. Consulting oncologists checked which prognostic information patients had received from the referring oncologist, before estimating prognosis. They agreed with the first opinion or rectified discrepancies carefully. Altogether, this study exposes missed opportunities for open prognostic discussions in SOs. Consulting oncologists could explicitly explore patients’ information preferences and perceptions of prognosis. If desired, they can provide tailored, independent information to optimise patients’ prognostic awareness and informed medical decision-making. They may additionally support patients in dealing with prognosis and the uncertainties associated with it.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. C. A. van der Velden
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Department of Medical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.B.A.v.d.K.); (V.L.); (E.M.A.S.); (I.H.); (M.A.H.)
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| | - M. B. A. van der Kleij
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Department of Medical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.B.A.v.d.K.); (V.L.); (E.M.A.S.); (I.H.); (M.A.H.)
| | - V. Lehmann
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Department of Medical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.B.A.v.d.K.); (V.L.); (E.M.A.S.); (I.H.); (M.A.H.)
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E. M. A. Smets
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Department of Medical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.B.A.v.d.K.); (V.L.); (E.M.A.S.); (I.H.); (M.A.H.)
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J. M. L. Stouthard
- Department of Medical Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066 CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - I. Henselmans
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Department of Medical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.B.A.v.d.K.); (V.L.); (E.M.A.S.); (I.H.); (M.A.H.)
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M. A. Hillen
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Department of Medical Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (M.B.A.v.d.K.); (V.L.); (E.M.A.S.); (I.H.); (M.A.H.)
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Mahendran R, Liu J, Kuparasundram S, Simard S, Chan YH, Kua EH, Griva K. Fear of cancer recurrence among cancer survivors in Singapore. Singapore Med J 2020; 62:305-310. [PMID: 31989183 DOI: 10.11622/smedj.2020007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) among cancer survivors is a persistent and distressing psychosocial concern that affects recovery and quality of life. The prevalence of FCR in Singapore is unknown. This cross-sectional study was designed to examine FCR and identify factors associated with FCR in mixed-cancer survivors locally. METHODS Cancer survivors in remission (n = 404) were assessed for: FCR using the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory (FCRI); emotional distress using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; and quality of life using the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF. Clinical and severe/pathological FCR was determined based on the severity scale of FCRI, known as FCRI-Short Form. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to examine factors associated with FCR. RESULTS The mean score on the FCRI was 59.5 ± 30.4. 43.6% of cancer survivors had clinical FCR and 32.1% had severe/pathological FCR. Younger age (odds ratio [OR] 0.952, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.911-0.995, p < 0.05), higher educational status (OR 2.55, 95% CI 1.15-5.65, p < 0.05) and higher levels of emotional distress (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.10-1.24, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with severe/pathological levels of FCR. CONCLUSION The present study is the first to determine levels of FCR among cancer survivors in Singapore. While the total FCR scores were similar to those of international studies, severe/pathological levels of FCR were found to be four times higher. These findings highlight a problem that is not widely recognised or acknowledged, but which deserves greater attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rathi Mahendran
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jianlin Liu
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.,Research Department, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore
| | | | - Sebastian Simard
- Health Science Department, Université du Quebec a Chicoutimi (UQAC), Quebec, Canada
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ee Heok Kua
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Konstadina Griva
- Department of Health Psychology and Behavioural Medicine, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
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10
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Systematic review of interventions by non-mental health specialists for managing fear of cancer recurrence in adult cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2019; 27:4055-4067. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-04979-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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11
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Russo S, Jongerius C, Faccio F, Pizzoli SFM, Pinto CA, Veldwijk J, Janssens R, Simons G, Falahee M, de Bekker-Grob E, Huys I, Postmus D, Kihlbom U, Pravettoni G. Understanding Patients' Preferences: A Systematic Review of Psychological Instruments Used in Patients' Preference and Decision Studies. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2019; 22:491-501. [PMID: 30975401 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has been mainly focused on how to elicit patient preferences, with less attention on why patients form certain preferences. OBJECTIVES To assess which psychological instruments are currently used and which psychological constructs are known to have an impact on patients' preferences and health-related decisions including the formation of preferences and preference heterogeneity. METHODS A systematic database search was undertaken to identify relevant studies. From the selected studies, the following information was extracted: study objectives, study population, design, psychological dimensions investigated, and instruments used to measure psychological variables. RESULTS Thirty-three studies were identified that described the association between a psychological construct, measured using a validated instrument, and patients' preferences or health-related decisions. We identified 33 psychological instruments and 18 constructs, and categorized the instruments into 5 groups, namely, motivational factors, cognitive factors, individual differences, emotion and mood, and health beliefs. CONCLUSIONS This review provides an overview of the psychological factors and related instruments in the context of patients' preferences and decisions in healthcare settings. Our results indicate that measures of health literacy, numeracy, and locus of control have an impact on health-related preferences and decisions. Within the category of constructs that could explain preference and decision heterogeneity, health locus of control is a strong predictor of decisions in several healthcare contexts and is useful to consider when designing a patient preference study. Future research should continue to explore the association of psychological constructs with preference formation and heterogeneity to build on these initial recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selena Russo
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy; Discipline of Paediatrics, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Chiara Jongerius
- Department of Medical Psychology-Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Flavia Faccio
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy; Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia F M Pizzoli
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy; Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Cathy Anne Pinto
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Merck & Co, Inc, Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Jorien Veldwijk
- Centre for Research Ethics and Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management and Erasmus Choice Modelling Center, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rosanne Janssens
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Esther de Bekker-Grob
- Erasmus School of Health Policy and Management and Erasmus Choice Modelling Center, Erasmus University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Isabelle Huys
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Douwe Postmus
- University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrik Kihlbom
- Centre for Research Ethics and Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy; Department of Oncology and Hemato-oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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12
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Uchida M, Sugie C, Yoshimura M, Suzuki E, Shibamoto Y, Hiraoka M, Akechi T. Factors associated with a preference for disclosure of life expectancy information from physicians: a cross-sectional survey of cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. Support Care Cancer 2019; 27:4487-4495. [PMID: 30911915 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-04716-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate experiences and preferences for disclosure of life expectancy, agreement between them, and the factors associated with preferences for disclosure of life expectancy with physicians among cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. METHODS Cancer patients aged 20 years or older were consecutively sampled when they started radiation therapy at two university hospitals. Patients completed self-administered questionnaires concerning their experiences of and preferences for disclosure of life expectancy, treatment decision-making, psychological distress, physical symptoms, sociodemographic and medical factors, physician's communication style, and provision of psychological, physical, and practical support. RESULTS Among the 226 respondents (response rate: 58%) who responded, 54% experienced disclosure of life expectancy, and 45% preferred it. The agreement is 65%. Eighty-five percent recognized their aim of radiation therapy as curative. A univariate analysis indicated that having a full/part-time job and wishing to leave treatment decisions to doctors were significantly associated with preference for disclosure of life expectancy, but psychological distress was not. A multiple regression analysis revealed that having a full-time/part-time job was significantly associated with preference of communication about life expectancy. CONCLUSIONS Fifty-four percent of the patients experienced and 45% of the patients preferred disclosure of life expectancy. The agreement is moderate. Our results show that there was a significant association between employment status and patient's preference for disclosure of life expectancy with physicians. Communication of prognosis is difficult but whether a patient continues to work or not may be an indicator of preference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Uchida
- Division of Palliative Care and Psycho-Oncology, Nagoya City University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan.
- Department of Psychiatry and Cognitive-Behavioral Medicine, Nagoya City University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 467-8601, Japan.
| | - Chikao Sugie
- Department of Radiology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Michio Yoshimura
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Image-Applied Therapy, Kyoto University Graduate, School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Eiji Suzuki
- Department of Breast Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuta Shibamoto
- Department of Radiology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masahiro Hiraoka
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Image-Applied Therapy, Kyoto University Graduate, School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Akechi
- Division of Palliative Care and Psycho-Oncology, Nagoya City University Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry and Cognitive-Behavioral Medicine, Nagoya City University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 467-8601, Japan
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13
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Chen CH, Kuo SC, Tang ST. Current status of accurate prognostic awareness in advanced/terminally ill cancer patients: Systematic review and meta-regression analysis. Palliat Med 2017; 31:406-418. [PMID: 27492160 DOI: 10.1177/0269216316663976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No systematic meta-analysis is available on the prevalence of cancer patients' accurate prognostic awareness and differences in accurate prognostic awareness by publication year, region, assessment method, and service received. AIM To examine the prevalence of advanced/terminal cancer patients' accurate prognostic awareness and differences in accurate prognostic awareness by publication year, region, assessment method, and service received. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, The Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were systematically searched on accurate prognostic awareness in adult patients with advanced/terminal cancer (1990-2014). Pooled prevalences were calculated for accurate prognostic awareness by a random-effects model. Differences in weighted estimates of accurate prognostic awareness were compared by meta-regression. RESULTS In total, 34 articles were retrieved for systematic review and meta-analysis. At best, only about half of advanced/terminal cancer patients accurately understood their prognosis (49.1%; 95% confidence interval: 42.7%-55.5%; range: 5.4%-85.7%). Accurate prognostic awareness was independent of service received and publication year, but highest in Australia, followed by East Asia, North America, and southern Europe and the United Kingdom (67.7%, 60.7%, 52.8%, and 36.0%, respectively; p = 0.019). Accurate prognostic awareness was higher by clinician assessment than by patient report (63.2% vs 44.5%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Less than half of advanced/terminal cancer patients accurately understood their prognosis, with significant variations by region and assessment method. Healthcare professionals should thoroughly assess advanced/terminal cancer patients' preferences for prognostic information and engage them in prognostic discussion early in the cancer trajectory, thus facilitating their accurate prognostic awareness and the quality of end-of-life care decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Hsiu Chen
- 1 Department of Nursing, University of Kang Ning, Tainan, Taiwan.,2 Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - Su Ching Kuo
- 2 Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan.,3 Department of Nursing, Yuanpei University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Siew Tzuh Tang
- 4 School of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan.,5 Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,6 Division of Hematology-Oncology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
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14
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Graham L, Wikman A. Toward improved survivorship: supportive care needs of esophageal cancer patients, a literature review. Dis Esophagus 2016; 29:1081-1089. [PMID: 26455727 DOI: 10.1111/dote.12424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The growing prevalence of esophageal cancer survivors represent a population typified by an extensive treatment regime, significant postsurgical long-term effects, and a dismal prognosis. Despite this, little is known of the supportive care needs of this patient group and the extent to which these are being met in practice. This review provides a synthesis of the research evidence to date; emphasizing opportunities for clinical application and setting a future agenda with research priorities. A literature search was performed using Medline/Embase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Search headings used included; [esophagus] or [esopohageal] or [upper gastrointestinal] or [upper GI] AND [cancer] or [carcinoma] or [squamous cell] AND [supportive care] or [survivorship] or [psychological] or [emotional] or [information] or [social] or [communication] or [spiritual] or [health-related-quality-of-life] or [HRQL] or [qualitative] or [patient narrative] or [clinical nurse specialist] or [CNS]. Related articles in English were reviewed, with additional articles harvested from reference sections. Esophageal cancer survivors report significant late-term effects posttreatment, encompassing sustained impairment in most areas of health-related quality of life. With a necessitated change in eating behavior, survivors find it particularly challenging to adjust to a new social identity and as a cancer population report high levels of psychological morbidity. Although the determinants of psychological morbidity are largely unknown, illness representations may be a key contributor. Several multidisciplinary supportive care interventions have been developed with promising results. The research summarized in this paper provides valuable insight into the psychosocial well-being of the esophageal cancer survivor. However, knowledge gaps remain, alongside a dearth of applied examples in meeting supportive care need.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Graham
- School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.,Marie Curie Cancer Care, Marie Curie Hospice Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - A Wikman
- Surgical Care Science, Department of Molecular medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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15
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Pieterse AH, Kunneman M, Engelhardt EG, Brouwer NJ, Kroep JR, Marijnen CAM, Stiggelbout AM, Smets EMA. Oncologist, patient, and companion questions during pretreatment consultations about adjuvant cancer treatment: a shared decision-making perspective. Psychooncology 2016; 26:943-950. [PMID: 27502561 DOI: 10.1002/pon.4241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the occurrence of questions that foster shared decision making, in particular cancer patients' understanding of treatment decisions and oncologists' understanding of patients' priorities, during consultations in which preference-sensitive decisions are discussed. Specifically, (a) regarding patient understanding, do oncologists ask about patients' preexisting knowledge, information preferences, and understanding and do patients and companions ask about the disease and treatment, and (b) regarding patient priorities, do oncologists ask about patients' treatment- and decision-related preferences and do patients and companions ask about the decision? METHODS Audiotaped pretreatment consultations of 100 cancer patients with 32 oncologists about (neo)adjuvant treatment were coded and analyzed to document question type, topic, and initiative. RESULTS The oncologists ascertained prior knowledge in 50 patients, asked 24 patients about preferred (probability) information, and invited questions from 56 patients. The oncologists asked 32 patients about treatment preferences and/or for consent. Respectively, one-third and one-fifth of patients and companions asked about treatment benefits compared with three-quarters of them who asked about treatment harms and/or procedures. CONCLUSIONS It would be helpful to patients if oncologists more often assessed patients' existing knowledge to tailor their information provision. Also, patients could receive treatment recommendations that better fit their personal situation if oncologists collected information on patients' views about treatments. Moreover, by educating patients to ask about treatment alternatives, benefits, and harms, patients may gain a better understanding of the choice they have.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Pieterse
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M Kunneman
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Psychology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E G Engelhardt
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - N J Brouwer
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - J R Kroep
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - C A M Marijnen
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - A M Stiggelbout
- Department of Medical Decision Making, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - E M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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16
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McNair AGK, MacKichan F, Donovan JL, Brookes ST, Avery KNL, Griffin SM, Crosby T, Blazeby JM. What surgeons tell patients and what patients want to know before major cancer surgery: a qualitative study. BMC Cancer 2016; 16:258. [PMID: 27036216 PMCID: PMC4815149 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-016-2292-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The information surgeons impart to patients and information patients want about surgery for cancer is important but rarely examined. This study explored information provided by surgeons and patient preferences for information in consultations in which surgery for oesophageal cancer surgery was discussed. METHODS Pre-operation consultations in which oesophagectomy was discussed were studied in three United Kingdom hospitals and patients were subsequently interviewed. Consultations and interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed in full and anonymized. Interviews elicited views about the information provided by surgeons and patients' preferences for information. Thematic analysis of consultation-interview pairs was used to investigate similarities and differences in the information provided by surgeons and desired by patients. RESULTS Fifty two audio-recordings from 31 patients and 7 surgeons were obtained (25 consultations and 27 patient interviews). Six consultations were not recorded because of equipment failure and four patients declined an interview. Surgeons all provided consistent, extensive information on technical operative details and in-hospital surgical risks. Consultations rarely included discussion of the longer-term outcomes of surgery. Whilst patients accepted that information about surgery and risks was necessary, they really wanted details about long-term issues including recovery, impact on quality of life and survival. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated a need for surgeons to provide information of importance to patients concerning the longer term outcomes of surgery. It is proposed that "core information sets" are developed, based on surgeons' and patients' views, to use as a minimum in consultations to initiate discussion and meet information needs prior to cancer surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angus G. K. McNair
- />School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
- />Severn School of Surgery, Deanery House, Unit D, Vantage Office Park, Old Gloucester Road, Hambrook, Bristol, BS16 1GW UK
| | - F MacKichan
- />School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
| | - J. L. Donovan
- />School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
| | - S. T. Brookes
- />School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
| | - K. N. L. Avery
- />School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
| | - S. M. Griffin
- />Northern Oesophago-Gastric Unit, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4LP UK
| | - T. Crosby
- />Department of Oncology, Velindre Hospital, Whitchurch, Cardiff, CF14 2TL UK
| | - J. M. Blazeby
- />School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
- />University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, BS2 8HW UK
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17
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Johnson M, Tod AM, Brummell S, Collins K. Prognostic communication in cancer: A critical interpretive synthesis of the literature. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2015; 19:554-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 02/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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18
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Seyedrasooli A, Rahmani A, Howard F, Zamanzadeh V, Mohammadpoorasl A, Aliashrafi R, Pakpour V. Iranian Cancer Patient Perceptions of Prognosis and the Relationship to Hope. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2014; 15:6205-10. [DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2014.15.15.6205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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19
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Momino K, Akechi T, Yamashita T, Fujita T, Hayahi H, Tsunoda N, Miyashita M, Iwata H. Psychometric Properties of the Japanese Version of the Concerns About Recurrence Scale (CARS-J). Jpn J Clin Oncol 2014; 44:456-62. [DOI: 10.1093/jjco/hyu032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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20
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McNair A, Brookes S, Kinnersley P, Blazeby J. What surgeons should tell patients with oesophago-gastric cancer: A cross sectional study of information needs. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2013; 39:1278-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2013.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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21
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Fear of cancer recurrence in adult cancer survivors: a systematic review of quantitative studies. J Cancer Surviv 2013; 7:300-22. [DOI: 10.1007/s11764-013-0272-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 537] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2012] [Accepted: 02/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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22
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Smets EMA, Hillen MA, Douma KFL, Stalpers LJA, Koning CCE, de Haes HCJM. Does being informed and feeling informed affect patients' trust in their radiation oncologist? PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2013; 90:330-7. [PMID: 22694893 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2012.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2011] [Revised: 05/01/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2012] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated whether the content of information provided by radiation oncologists and their information giving performance increase patients' trust in them. METHODS Questionnaires were used to assess radiotherapy patients (n=111) characteristics before their first consultation, perception of information giving after the first consultation and trust before the follow-up consultation. Videotaped consultations were scored for the content of the information provided and information giving performance. RESULTS Patients mean trust score was 4.5 (sd=0.77). The more anxious patients were, the less they tended to fully trust their radiation oncologist (p=0.03). Patients' age, gender, educational attainment and anxious disposition together explained 7%; radiation oncologists' information giving (content and performance) explained 3%, and patients' perception of radiation oncologists' information-giving explained an additional 4% of the variance in trust scores. CONCLUSION It can be questioned whether trust is a sensitive patient reported outcome of quality of communication in highly vulnerable patients. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS It is important to note that trust may not be a good patient reported outcome of quality of care. Concerning radiation oncologists' information giving performance, our data suggest that they can particularly improve their assessments of patients' understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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23
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Smets EMA, van Heijl M, van Wijngaarden AKS, Henselmans I, van Berge Henegouwen MI. Addressing patients' information needs: a first evaluation of a question prompt sheet in the pretreatment consultation for patients with esophageal cancer. Dis Esophagus 2012; 25:512-9. [PMID: 22054056 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2050.2011.01274.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to develop and pilot a question prompt sheet to assist esophageal cancer patients to obtain desired information in the consultation in which potentially curative esophagectomy is discussed. Whether a prompt sheet affected patients' question asking, the number and scope of topics discussed, the length of the consultation, and patients' satisfaction is investigated. Patients (n= 30) were randomized either to receive care as usual (control group) or to receive a prompt sheet (intervention group). All patients completed a baseline questionnaire, their consultations were audio-recorded and content-coded, and they received a structured telephone interview 2 days after the consultation to assess satisfaction. Patients provided with the prompt sheet marked a median of 19 questions. They asked significantly more questions as compared with patients in the control group (median of 12 vs. 8 questions). Questions mainly addressed treatment options and procedures. No differences were found with regard to consultation length and patient satisfaction. Our results suggest that providing patients with a simple, easy-to-implement tool such as a question prompt is appreciated and helps patients to ask more questions during the consultation without increasing the length of the consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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24
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Farin E, Nagl M. The patient-physician relationship in patients with breast cancer: influence on changes in quality of life after rehabilitation. Qual Life Res 2012; 22:283-94. [PMID: 22419450 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-012-0151-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/27/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to examine whether aspects of the patient-physician relationship for breast cancer patients have an influence on the change in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) after inpatient rehabilitation. METHODS N = 329 breast cancer patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation in Germany were surveyed using questionnaires at the beginning of rehabilitation, end of rehabilitation, and 6 months after rehabilitation. Multiple imputations and multilevel models of change were used in the data analyses. RESULTS Even after comprehensive adjustment for sociodemographic, medical, psychological variables, and center effects, aspects of the physician-patient relationship were statistically and clinically relevant predictors of HRQOL after rehabilitation. Satisfaction with physician's care appears to have a rather short-term effect, but the effect of promoting patient participation can still be partially determined 6 months after rehabilitation. Other important predictors of HRQOL improvement are optimism, higher level of education, higher income, living with a partner, and the ability to work. CONCLUSIONS By taking into consideration the patient's communication and participation needs, physicians can contribute to an improved HRQOL after rehabilitation. The high predictive power of socioeconomic factors shows that rehabilitation care can be more effective if it accounts for the specific situation of socially disadvantaged individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Farin
- Department of Quality Management and Social Medicine, University Freiburg - Medical Center, Engelbergerstr. 21, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
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Farin E, Gramm L, Schmidt E. Taking into account patients' communication preferences: instrument development and results in chronic back pain patients. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2012; 86:41-48. [PMID: 21570795 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2011.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2010] [Revised: 02/21/2011] [Accepted: 04/08/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective is to develop an instrument that measures the extent of matching between patient communication preferences and physician communication behavior and takes various essential aspects of patient-provider communication into consideration. Furthermore we give a description of communication preferences and matching for chronic back pain patients. METHODS Using an existing questionnaire for assessing patient communication preferences (named KOPRA), a questionnaire on the communication behavior of physicians (KOVA questionnaire) was developed with identical contents. Combining KOPRA and KOVA items results in preference-matching items. N=703 patients were surveyed. RESULTS After item selection all scales of the KOVA questionnaire are unidimensional, reliable, and satisfy the requirements of an item response theory model. The preference-matching scales are also unidimensional and reliable (Cronbach's alpha .87-.91). In addition, there is evidence of the validity of both instruments. Matching between communication preferences and behavior is relatively high overall, but there are some areas with clear discrepancies. CONCLUSION AND PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS The preference-matching scales allow areas to be identified in which physicians are not very successful in addressing the communication preferences of patients. With back pain patients, physicians should take particular consideration of the very great need for open communication and information about further treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Farin
- University Medical Center Freiburg, Dept. of Quality Management and Social Medicine, Freiburg, Germany.
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Thewes B, Butow P, Zachariae R, Christensen S, Simard S, Gotay C. Fear of cancer recurrence: a systematic literature review of self-report measures. Psychooncology 2011; 21:571-87. [PMID: 22021099 DOI: 10.1002/pon.2070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2010] [Revised: 08/16/2011] [Accepted: 08/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior research has shown that many cancer survivors experience ongoing fears of cancer recurrence (FCR) and that this chronic uncertainty of health status during and after cancer treatment can be a significant psychological burden. The field of research on FCR is an emerging area of investigation in the cancer survivorship literature, and several standardised instruments for its assessment have been developed. AIMS This review aims to identify all available FCR-specific questionnaires and subscales and critically appraise their properties. METHODS A systematic review was undertaken to identify instruments measuring FCR. Relevant studies were identified via Medline (1950-2010), CINAHL (1982-2010), PsycINFO (1967-2010) and AMED (1985-2010) databases, reference lists of articles and reviews, grey literature databases and consultation with experts in the field. The Medical Outcomes Trust criteria were used to examine the psychometric properties of the questionnaires. RESULTS A total of 20 relevant multi-item measures were identified. The majority of instruments have demonstrated reliability and preliminary evidence of validity. Relatively few brief measures (2-10 items) were found to have comprehensive validation and reliability data available. Several valid and reliable longer measures (>10 items) are available. Three have developed short forms that may prove useful as screening tools. CONCLUSIONS This analysis indicated that further refinement and validation of existing instruments is required. Valid and reliable instruments are needed for both research and clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Thewes
- Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Hillen MA, de Haes HCJM, Smets EMA. Cancer patients' trust in their physician-a review. Psychooncology 2011; 20:227-41. [PMID: 20878840 DOI: 10.1002/pon.1745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patient's trust in their physician is crucial for desirable treatment outcomes such as satisfaction and adherence. In oncology, trust is possibly even more essential, due to the life-threatening nature of cancer. A review was undertaken of the current knowledge of the conceptualization, assessment, correlates, and consequences of cancer patients' trust in their physician. METHODS The empirical literature published in peer-reviewed journals between October 1988 and October 2008 was searched, employing all combinations and variations of the following keywords: trust, physician-patient relations, and cancer. RESULTS The search identified 45 relevant papers, only 11 of which drew attention to the conceptualization of trust, and 5 of which focused on trust as the primary subject of interest. Trust in physicians was strong overall. Patients' trust appeared to be enhanced by the physician's perceived technical competence, honesty, and patient-centred behaviour. A trusting relationship between patient and physician resulted in facilitated communication and medical decision making, a decrease of patient fear, and better treatment adherence. CONCLUSIONS A lack of focus on trust and the conceptualization thereof, strong methodological variations between studies and a possible publication bias lead us to conclude that cancer patients' trust in their physician deserves more systematic, theoretically based, research attention. Consequently, studies are needed aimed at gaining a thorough understanding of the nature and impact of cancer patients' trust in their physician, and how the interaction between physician and patient may contribute to such trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marij A Hillen
- Department of Medical Psychology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Meulenkamp TM, Gevers SK, Bovenberg JA, Koppelman GH, van Hylckama Vlieg A, Smets EMA. Communication of biobanks' research results: what do (potential) participants want? Am J Med Genet A 2010; 152A:2482-92. [PMID: 20799322 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.33617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate (potential) research participants' (a) information preferences with regard to receiving biobanks' genetic research results, and (b) attitudes towards the duties of researchers to communicate research results. A total group of 1,678 was analyzed, consisting of a sample of the general Dutch population (N=1,163) and patients with asthma, rhinitis, and thrombosis (N=515) who completed a survey including six fictitious genetic research results each presented as aggregate and individual result, varied for treatability and kind of disease. Five questions assessed attitudes towards researchers' duties to communicate research results. Additionally, background characteristics were measured. A majority of the respondents wanted to receive aggregate results as well as individual results. A small majority (59%) held the view that researchers should communicate individual results with no health consequences. One third agreed with an information duty only when treatment is available. A preference for individual results and an attitude in favor of communicating results were both associated with belonging to the general Dutch population rather than being a patient, wanting to learn about own health as the reason for biobank-participation, a monitoring coping style, a general desire for health information, perceived meaningfulness of genetic information and no anticipated anxiousness. A sizable majority of respondents showed a high information preference for individual results, even when it is unclear that treatment is available. Fewer were of the opinion that researchers should make this possible. For their communication policy biobanks should take notice of (potential) participants' high information preferences and expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tineke M Meulenkamp
- Department of Medical Psychology, Academic Medical Center/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Dempster M, McCorry NK, Brennan E, Donnelly M, Murray LJ, Johnston BT. Psychological distress among family carers of oesophageal cancer survivors: the role of illness cognitions and coping. Psychooncology 2010; 20:698-705. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.1760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2009] [Revised: 04/02/2010] [Accepted: 04/02/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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